There have been several studies published over the years that have established an association between male pattern hair loss and reduced levels of SHBG. This just published study directly reinforces prior studies, which produced identical findings in European males.

These findings have been further supported by the frequently reported hair loss prevention effects of Soy Isoflavones.

INTRODUCTION:
Alopecia in male is considered as a genetically determined disorder characterized by increased level of local androgen metabolite and increase androgen receptor binding in balding areas. Frequent deviations of hormones from normal values have been reported in men diagnosed with premature androgenetic alopecia (AGA) especially for androgens, gonadotropins and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Different studies in the past have inferred that premature baldness before the age of thirty in males could be considered equivalent to the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in female.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Hormonal profile of 50 men with severe premature balding before 30 years of age were compared with same numbers of age matched controls. The serum concentrations of total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, SHBG, insulin and fasting blood sugar were estimated. Statistical analysis was performed with paired Student's t-test for cases and controls.

RESULTS:
Decreased levels of SHBG with high free androgen index were found in cases when compared with the controls.

CONCLUSION:
Though altered hormonal profile may coexist in men with premature AGA it can't be considered as male equivalent to PCOS in female or the metabolic syndrome.

Soy- or red clover- derived products containing isoflavones have been amply studied in climacteric and postmenopausal women, and confusing contradicting results have been published. The beneficial effects on climacteric complaints, cholesterol and the development of osteoporosis are marginally at best and there are no uterine and mammary safety studies. In males, however, isoflavones may protect the prostate to make them less prone to develop cancer. Cell biological and animal experimental data support this notion. Clinical data about possible beneficial effects on cholesterol or in the bone are largely missing. Hence, soy or red clover products containing the mild estrogenic isoflavones with a slightly higher affinity to the estrogen receptor of the beta in comparison to the alpha subtype may prove to have some beneficial effects in males.

Using Soy Isoflavones makes perfect sense for anyone interested in improving hair growth. Although there is an almost rabid anti-Soy hysteria for a limited group of individuals, the vast preponderance of published literature points in a profoundly positive direction for human health. If Soy caused even a miniscule fraction of health problems some propose, there would be a wealth of epidemiological data on Soy consuming cultures confirming these claims. The fact is, none of this data exist, and what does exist strongly supports the usage of dietary Soy and Soy Isoflavones. Additionally there other constituents of soy have also demonstrated effects that help explain the health and longevity of Asian populations who consume a great deal of soy in their diet. To recap: Non genetically modified Soy Isoflavones are not only beneficial to human health, they help prevent skin aging and promote hair growth by lowering serum DHT, bind to both androgen and estrogen beta receptors, increase follicular levels of IGF 1,(particularly when combined with capsaicin), facilitate Equol production, and normalize SHBG levels, which are reduced in balding men.

The optimal amount to Soy Isoflavones to facilitate hair growth is an open question. Apparently though, it appears amounts that are readily available via supplementation, are sufficient to produce the desired effects. A mere 15 grams of dietary Soy Protein was enough to produce measurable drops in DHT. Dr Harada utilized 75 mg of Soy Isoflavones (combined with capsaicin) to induce measurable hair growth in his male and female subjects with both androgenetic and autoimmune forms of hair loss.